Introduction

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a global hub for professionals, students, and job seekers. Whether you're applying for a job, pursuing higher education, or sponsoring a family visa, one thing is essential: Degree Attestation UAE. This process legally validates your educational qualifications so they are recognized by the UAE government and employers.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about degree attestation in UAE—from what it is, why it’s important, how the process works, and what documents are required.

What is Degree Attestation UAE?

Degree Attestation UAE is the official process of verifying educational documents (like diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees) from the country where they were issued, for them to be legally accepted in the UAE.

This process involves a series of steps and approvals from:

• Your home country’s government and ministries
• UAE Embassy in your home country
• UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC)

Once completed, your degree becomes valid for:

• Employment
• Higher education
• Migration
• Sponsoring dependents
• Obtaining residence visas

Why is Degree Attestation Needed in UAE?

Degree Attestation UAE is mandatory for:

1. Employment: Especially in skilled professions (engineers, doctors, teachers, etc.)
2. Visa Processing: For residence, family, or employment visa applications
3. Higher Education: To enroll in universities or colleges in UAE
4. Professional Licensing: Required by government bodies and authorities
5. Government Jobs: For authentication of qualifications
6. Migration and PR: For moving to UAE or another country via UAE

Step-by-Step Degree Attestation Process for UAE

The process varies depending on your nationality, but the general steps are as follows:

1. Notary Attestation (Home Country)

The degree certificate must first be notarized by a public notary in your country.

2. University Verification

Some countries require verification from the issuing university.

3. Education Department Attestation

The degree is then attested by the state or regional education department (especially in countries like India or Pakistan).

4. Ministry of External/Foreign Affairs Attestation

Next, the document is submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in your home country.

5. UAE Embassy Attestation

Then, the degree must be attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

6. MOFA Attestation in UAE

Finally, the attested degree must be authenticated by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC) once you arrive in the country.

Country-wise Degree Attestation UAE Process

1. Degree Attestation UAE for Indian Nationals

• Step 1: Notarization by a public notary
• Step 2: HRD attestation (Human Resource Development Department)
• Step 3: MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) attestation
• Step 4: UAE Embassy attestation in India
• Step 5: MOFA attestation in UAE

2. Degree Attestation UAE for Pakistan Nationals

• Step 1: HEC (Higher Education Commission) attestation
• Step 2: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) attestation in Pakistan
• Step 3: UAE Embassy attestation in Islamabad/Karachi
• Step 4: MOFA attestation in UAE

3. Degree Attestation for Other Countries

Most countries follow a similar pattern:

• Notary → Foreign Ministry → UAE Embassy → MOFA UAE

Required Documents for Degree Attestation UAE

To initiate the process, the following documents are usually required:

• Original degree certificate
• Passport copy of the applicant
• Visa copy (if already in UAE)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Authorization letter (if a third party is handling it)
• Mark sheets or transcripts (in some cases)

How Long Does Degree Attestation Take?

On average, degree attestation for UAE takes 7 to 20 business days, depending on:

• Your home country
• Number of departments involved
• Whether the degree is already verified by your university
• Public holidays and embassy workloads

Fast-track options are available through attestation agencies, reducing the process to just 3-7 working days.

Cost of Degree Attestation UAE

The cost varies depending on the country and the number of steps involved. Here’s a rough estimate:

CountryAverage Cost (USD)Time RequiredIndia$100 – $20010–15 working daysPakistan$100 – $18010–20 working daysUK/USA/Canada$150 – $3007–20 working daysPhilippines$100 – $25010–15 working days

Note: Prices may vary based on agency fees, courier charges, and urgent processing.

MOFA UAE Attestation Centers

In UAE, the final attestation is done by MOFAIC. You can visit MOFA centers located in:

• Dubai
• Abu Dhabi
• Sharjah
• Ajman
• Ras Al Khaimah

Appointments can be booked online on the MOFAIC website.

Can I Do Degree Attestation UAE Without an Agency?

Yes, it’s possible to do the attestation yourself, but it’s a time-consuming and bureaucratic process. Most people prefer to use professional attestation services in UAE to:

• Save time and effort
• Avoid document rejection
• Get expert guidance

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Submitting Fake Documents: This leads to legal action or visa denial.
2. Skipping a Step: Missing one department's approval voids the entire process.
3. Wrong Translations: Some degrees need to be translated into Arabic before attestation.
4. Using Inexperienced Agents: Choose only authorized attestation services.

Top Attestation Agencies in UAE

Here are some reputed agencies to help with degree attestation UAE:

• Helpline Group
• BVS Global
• Prompt Attestation
• Index Office Services
• PEC Attestation Services

Always check their reviews, turnaround time, and fees before proceeding.

Conclusion

Degree Attestation UAE is a critical step for anyone moving to the Emirates for work, education, or migration. It ensures that your educational qualifications are legally valid and accepted by UAE authorities and institutions.

Although the process can seem complex, it’s manageable with the right knowledge or by hiring a trusted agency. Whether you’re from India, Pakistan, the UK, or anywhere else, getting your degree attested in time will save you from visa delays and job rejections.

FAQs – Degree Attestation UAE

Q1: Is attestation necessary for all degrees in UAE?

Yes, attestation is mandatory for foreign degrees being used for employment, visas, or education in UAE.

Q2: Can I attest my degree after coming to UAE?

Partially. Most steps must be done in your home country, but final MOFA attestation is done in UAE.

Q3: How do I check if my degree is attested in UAE?

You can verify it via MOFAIC service centers or ask the agency you used.

Q4: Do online degrees qualify for attestation in UAE?

Only if they are from recognized and accredited institutions. Otherwise, they may be rejected.

Q5: What is MOFA attestation UAE?